Touchdown! Best Places To Watch The Superbowl

The day is almost upon us when we will place bets on teams we may know nothing about, scream for men in metallic tights, heave with laughter for commercials that imply that idiots know best, dine on grease-laden finger foods, and chug beer like it’s going out of style. All the above activities are best done in groups of folks just like you.

ESPN Zone
3030 Peachtree Rd. (@ Pharr Rd.)
Buckhead 404.682.3776
Packed with testosterone, this is an obvious spot where your cheers can be heard and enjoyed amongst the biggest sports fans in Atlanta.

Famous Pub and Sports Palace
2947 N. Druid Hills Rd. NE (@ La Vista Rd. NE)
Druid Hills 404.633.3555
Known for its brewskies, brawls, and brawn, this popular sports bar will be packed with serious fans sporting jerseys and quite possibly team-color face paint.

Jocks and Jills Midtown
112 10th St. NE (@ Peachtree St. NE)
Midtown 404.873.5405
Though the interior is best suited for smaller groups of people who can share a booth, Jocks and Jills offers an enclosed patio with multiple TVs for the serious fan/smoker.

Stooge's
2020 Howell Mill Rd. (@ Collier Rd.)
Buckhead 404.355.5445
This fan-friendly sports bar boasts 40 TVs, seating aplenty, excellent grub, considerate clientele, and a seriously understanding waitstaff.

Sweet Lowdown
942 Peachtree St. NE (@ 10th St.)
Midtown 404.207.1324
Multiple, enormous plasma televisions, divine modern Southern cuisine, and 11,000 square feet of technologically advanced seating/standing/cheering room are all reasons to up the ante at this classy joint.

Hot Bartenders

We don't want to give them more of an edge...they already hold the key to your happiness—liquor. But there are some spots where the bartenders are just so ridiculously hot that your libations become quite libidinous.

Aiko
128 E. Andrews Dr. (Paces Pl. & Roswell Rd.)
Buckhead 404.869.4800
If sushi is an aphrodisiac, you’re going to feel one hell of a tingle at this spot where the bars are tended by handsome hunks and ultra-hot girls.

Cosmopolitan
45 13th St. (@ Peachtree Walk)
Midtown 404.873.6189
Well-groomed bartenders throw down Cocktail style at this young professional meet-and-greet scene.

Fever
1789 Cheshire Bridge Rd. (@ Piedmont Rd.)
Midtown 404.214.0151
Velvet ropes are there for a reason, people. Fever’s sexy, seasoned bartenders have a following of their own.

Hush
67 12th St. NW (@ Crescent Ave.)
Midtown 404.875.7473
Swank digs command the right to demand beautiful bartenders. The master mixologists here are as charming as they are cute.

Leopard Lounge
84 12th St. (@ Crescent Ave.)
Midtown 404.875.7562
Tongues wag about the gorgeous guys and girls swirling up the cocktails at this retro joint where the highballs are served with flash-worthy smiles.

Hot Chicks

Two to be exact. Entrepreneurs Nakia Williams and Tracey Manor have carved out a nice little niche for themselves in the world of nail salons. 2NailChicks (Salons of Atlanta, 6125 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs, 404.250.2008) offers free Wi-Fi, pillow seating in hideaway nooks, and the ultimate in all-natural manis and pedis.

Sale Alert

Bebe, a favored shop for tops in which to paint the town red in, is having its winter sale. Already marked-down merchandise from their winter collection is now reduced an additional 50%. Phipps Mall, Lenox Mall, Cumberland Mall, Perimeter Mall

Lay Me Down To Sleep

B.E.D., the swank bar and restaurant that gave us somewhere to take our shoes off and get comfortable before we ate, has been laid to rest. It is officially closed. Some say it's the bad reviews it was given for foul customer service, and others report that Atlanta and our visitors weren't willing to shell out the $600 minimum to rent a bed. Perhaps it's because B.E.D. was housed in the Glenn Hotel, and people could just go up a few floors to dine on their own bed for less than half that amount. David Marvin, who owns the Glenn, says that B.E.D. and the Glenn parted amicably. He said the restaurant space B.E.D. vacated is operating and being run by another food company. He is committed, however, to putting another concept restaurant in the hotel. "B.E.D. may have been too esoteric for some visitors," he said. "Some people had good experience, some did not. For us, we think something a little more mainstream might be better suited for the Glenn."

Open For Business

Emly Benham, the new Vinings-based designer shoe boutique, is finally open. Offerings include toe-tapping styles from brands such as Prada, Gunmetal, Kors, and Moschino; accessories by Alexis Bittar and Rodo; and bags from Be&D and Valentino.



Emly Benham, 4300 Paces Ferry Rd., Ste. 228, 678.213.2595, Mon.-Sat., 10am-6pm

Fresh Face

Winter's harsh on the skin, so moisturizing is crucial. But so is gentle exfoliating, which many forget about. Head to Buckhead's The Spa on Paces (3209 Paces Ferry Pl. NW, 404.237.7712) for its fresh and fruity mango and cranberry facial peel ($117).

So Scadulous

Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) came to Atlanta more than a year ago, and recently they opened ShopSCAD, which is the school's own art gallery/boutique where all the works are for sale, showcasing the talents of SCAD students, faculty, and alum. Offerings include cutting-edge jewelry, bags, children's books, furniture, pillows, clothing, and wall art.
ShopSCAD
3096 Roswell Rd. (@ Early St.) Buckhead
404.816.0247

D-Day

OK, sure, it's called V-Day when you're getting something, but D-Day for those who have to shell out cash when we just got done with the big holiday. It's not just the Gs we've got to part with but the ideas that are hard to come up with. Watches, belts, and shoes might get old after awhile. Freshen up your gift-giving routine this Valentine's Day while giving him something to sing about. JOQ Day Spa for Men (1545 Peachtree St., Midtown, 404.892.7771) caters to your groomed guy with upscale services such as massages, facials, and body treatments while still keeping that gentlemen's club feel about the place.

Do The Truffle Shuffle

Tuesdays are hard work. You just made it through Monday, and you're looking at your calendar thinking how in the hell am I going to make it to Friday. With liquor, dear boys and girls, anything is possible. Give it a chocolate topping, and you'll be dancing through the remaining days.

Godiva Truffletini
1 oz. Godiva Original Liqueur
1/2 oz. Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur
1/2 oz. chilled Ciroc vodka
Stir with ice, and strain into martini glass. Garnish with a Godiva truffle. Voila. Life's riddles are solved.

That's A Wrap

The Gap (3500 Peachtree Rd. NE, Phipps Plaza) will be closing its Phipps Plaza location on January 26. Hurry in today to take advantage of huge savings on business casual office gear that complies with all codes and those super-soft favorite T-shirts.

Tan Your Hide

This weekend during the torrential downpour that was Sunday, we burrowed under blankets and watched Vh1 for hours. The "I Love New York" episode from last week showed again, and I was blinded by Mr. Boston's pasty white tush when he dared sport an animal-print thong in the Mangeant. If your guy dares bare almost all, make sure he's well-covered ... in a tan, that is. Try Clique's Non-Streak Bronzer For Men ($13.50). He'll be mooning with pride in no time.

Best Bars To Drink Alone In

Whether it’s your sorrows you need to drown or a melodramatic mood you are fueling, you’ll find solitary solace at these bars perfect for helping you be a liquored-up loner.

Apache Café
64 3rd St. NW (Spring & Williams Sts.)
Midtown 404.876.5436
Seeking a hole to crawl in, but your cubicle’s in a dry county? Head here for a chill-out session shrouded in the aural sensation of good music.

Brick Store Pub
125 E. Court Square (@ Ponce de Leon Ave.)
Decatur 404.687.0990
A favored hangout among the intelligentsia of Decatur, you can curl up to a pint of Belgian brew with your first-edition Dylan Thomas without being bothered.

Righteous Room
1051 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE (N. Highland Ave. & Cleburne Ter.)
Midtown 404.874.0939
This totally laid-back and unpretentious spot feeds you fantastic bar fare, offers a classic jukebox to get lost in, and back corner booths to sit alone in for hours.

The Highlander
931 Monroe Dr. NE (10th & 8th Sts. NE)
Midtown 404.872.0060
An arcade meets Hell’s Kitchen meets Hell’s Angels meets Joan of Arcadia. Whoever you are, you’ll fit right in even if alone.

The Royal
255 Trinity Ave. SW (Spring & Forsyth Sts. SW)
Downtown 404.653.1644
Shadowy dark corners and low-slung crystal chandeliers await you at this posh bar favored by urban trendsetters, roving celebs, and solitary drinkers.

Get Your Gay On

ARCHIVE
Oct. 11, 2006
Happy National Coming Out Day! To celebrate, WETbar, a primarily boy-run establishment with a decent mix of lesbians and tons of straight folks, is hosting a fun-filled Largest Coming Out Party Ever this Friday, Oct. 13th. Spinning for your dancing pleasure will be DJs Kim Crawford and Mike Cruz. On the mic for your visual pleasure will be love-her-or-hate-her drag queen Charlie Brown. Ever since her cabaret club got shut down in Underground Atlanta, she's taken up residence with the sweet boys of WETbar. Show starts at 10pm.

My Shecky's Blog On The Subject, Among Other Things

Getting Polished

Archive
Oct. 17, 2006
Sugarcoat, the newest kid on the block for manis and pedis, turns one year old this week. To celebrate, its offering 10% all services today, tomorrow, and Thursday (Oct. 17-19).

This posh nail and beauty bar spoils you rotten amidst an ultra-luxe and super-clean setting. You can even bring your own drinks in as long as it's not red wine. (Malbec tends to stain white leather.)

My Vote: Go all the way with your discount with the Escape to Fiji Pedicure. For $47, it's a mini-vacation for tired feet with a tranquil coconut foot soak, nail shaping, cuticle care, pure Fiji coconut oil, exfoliating sugar scrub, and a gentle massage using warm stones and pure Fiji pineapple-scented oil. Tiny warm stones are places between the toes while they are polished to perfection. (Sugarcoat's disclaimer: Cabana boy and pina colada not included!)

Sugarcoat 256 Pharr Rd., The Eclipse Building in Buckhead, 404.814.212

Who's Down With OTP?

ARCHIVE
Oct. 19, 2006
Every last lady, that's right. It's time to Wine and Dine, ladies and gentlemen.

This year, the series moves outside of the perimeter to Perimeter Place, a fresh air dining-and-shopping complex near Perimeter Mall (at the top end of 285, off Ashford-Dunwoody Rd. exit, head north).

This Saturday, Oct. 21, from 1pm to 5 pm, Perimeter Place restaurants such as Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Restaurants, Robeks Fruit Smoothies & Healthy Eats, Mimi's Cafe, Tin Drum, Outback Steakhouse, and more join in to offer you a taste of what tasty and trendy treats await you when you tire from shopping at the mall. Expand your vino selection with wines for taste and for sale (by the bottle and the glass) hailing from regions all over the world, such as Italy, France, Spain, Germany, South Africa, Chile, Argentina, California, Washington, and Oregon. We hear beer will be available, too!

The al fresco event is $25 to enter ($35 at the door), and the true beauty of this fete is that it's all-inclusive. Once you enter those pearly gates, there's no hassle of trying to find the blasted taste tickets in your oversized bag that actually has its own echo. Live music from Java Monkey and Rio Negro, wine seminars, and intermittent fashion shows from Miss Lovely shoes completes the festivities. Ticket sales benefit Epilepsy Foundation of Georgia. So, you can feel good about tipping back the bottle. We love that.

Click here to purchase tickets.


ko
Atlanta Editor
Shecky's
Click here to read more blogs by yours truly.

And Baby Makes Three

ARCHIVE
Oct. 23, 2006
After our feast at Wine and Dine on Saturday, Maria and I went to a baby shower. Strangely enough, it was my first, and I was quite entertained with the games (guessing the chocolate candy bars mashed into diapers was heinous though). I have to admit that this was my first party where the punch bowls had to have little cards indicating which ones had liquor in them. Ruthie's Cucumber Punch was served, of course. Out on the terrace where the congratulatory cigars were being smoked and toasts were being made to the two mommies-to-be, a discussion was underway about madres-to-be and wine. Is it OK? How much is too much? Though it's certainly a topic every girl should address with her doctor, the consensus here was that one glass of red wine drank every day was good for the mother on all accounts. It lowers stress levels, and according to my sources, the sex is off the charts. Of course, that is how some people end up with that adorable bun in the oven in the first place.

At any rate, I am now raising my glass of malbec to Jay and Lanette. Cheers to you two, ladies. You're going to be wonderful parents! (Yes, I drink at my desk. Doesn't everyone?) Baby Lathan's due November 13, but my money is on November 14. Seriously, folks, there's a pool if you want to get in on it. It's just $1. Message me if you want to place your bet on Lathan's arrival into this world. Sex, date and time of delivery, and weight must be in your bet.

Garden Party

ARCHIVE
Oct. 25, 2006
Drink in all kinds of nectar at this garden party. Tonight, Oct. 25, is the last night for the 2006 Cocktails In The Garden series at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens (1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, 404.876.5859). The happy horticultural hour lasts from 7pm to 9pm. $12 for guests, $6 for garden members, light hors d'oeuvres, and cash bar. Members get one free drink with admission. RSVP here.

Dallas Austin's Soothing Sounds

ARCHIVE
Oct. 27, 2006
In a city with a population of more than 5 million, it can be hard to feel special. One listen to Dallas Austin's new meditative CD "Blue" ($15), and you may start to feel like you're one in a million. Especially if you're one of just 100 guests headed to the exclusive unveiling tonight at Blue MedSpa (190 10th St., 404.815.8880). The album benefits Austin's eponymous charitable foundation, which provides recording studio facilities in public schools for musically minded students. The fundraiser is chaired by Blue MedSpa owner John Stupka, Atlanta Falcons player Warrick Dunn, and Mary Catherine Sneed. A couple of tickets may still be available, but they won't come cheap. This is for charity, after all. $175 a person/$300 a couple. Call 404.357.1036 for more information.

Lesbians Lose Out

ARCHIVE
Oct. 31, 2006
My Sisters' Room (222 E. Howard Ave., Decatur), currently Atlanta's only lesbian bar, is closing its doors on December 15th so that the entire street can be mowed down for, you guessed it, more condos. Rumor has it the owner plans to purchase a bar up in Marietta (rhymes with Le Scuzz) but is considering something closer to its old stomping ground—possibly on Clairmont Rd. I've been going to MSR since it was above the Highlander in the Midtown Promenade. The first time I went in there, I was serenaded by an older woman with a guitar at the bar while I waited for my margarita. Her face was leathery from years spent in the sun, but her blue eyes twinkled, and I was reminded why I love the South. The people are kind and genuine. I hope My Sisters' Room's new pad is even better than the old one, but I'm going to miss that patio. Hopefully they'll throw one hell of a closing party.

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Read my Shecky's blogs on nightlife, fashion, shopping, and beauty.

Sweet Lowdown

ARCHIVE
Oct. 31, 2006

Love Southern cooking but wish it was dressed up as fashionably as you? Sweet Lowdown has got what you need, sugar. Opening to the public on Nov. 20 at 10pm (Nov. 21 for the full dining experience), this new restaurant/event facility (942 Peachtree St., across from the Metropolis in Midtown) cost $2 million to create and promises to impress even the most discerning of taste buds. Stay tuned for a review.

Sugarland Fans, Listen Up

ARCHIVE
Oct. 31, 2006

Smith's Olde Bar (1578 Piedmont Ave. @ Monroe Dr., 404.875.1522) is hosting a listening party this Thursday, Nov. 2, for the new CD of one of my favorite bands ever, Sugarland. I've been following crooning sexpot Jennifer Nettles' soul-stirring music since she was a part of Soul Miner's Daughter, playing at the 40Watt in Athens. She's now partnered up with just one sidekick, Kristian Bush, just like the good ol' days, now that Kristen Hall has left the group to pursue other opportunities. "Enjoy The Ride" (in stores Nov. 7) will be played from 8pm to 10 pm in the Atlanta Acoustic Room. Ella Guru will be on site for pre-sales, and you can get a free keychain with your pre-order. Also being given away is one pair of tickets to see Sugarland perform at Hi-Fi Buys Amphitheatre on Nov. 10.

Subscribe to my blog to get updates such as this, and check me out on Sheckys.com, too, where I blog on all things cool in Atlanta.

Trois

ARCHIVE
Nov. 1, 2006
After successfully opening eateries that are as delectable as they are fashionable such as ONE.Midtown Kitchen, TWO.Urban Licks, and piebar, partners Bob Amick and Todd Rushing (of Concentrics Restaurants) are adding another culinary triumph to their repertoire. The latest is simply but elegantly titled TROIS (1180 Peachtree St., @ 14th and Peachtree). An exclusive and grand affair is being held this Friday night (Nov. 3) from 6 to 11pm at the hotly anticipated upscale French restaurant complete with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Tickets are $55 a person, and the proceeds benefit the Atlanta Symphony Center. Click here for tickets, using the password trois3. Your attire should be festive, and how much fun is that? Exclusivity also buys you the opportunity to be one of the first in Atlanta to experience the three-level restaurant since it's not going to be open to the public until Nov. 13. For more information, call 404.888.9348.

Indulge

Extra cash burning a hole in your beaded clutch or those blue jeans? Wet your whistle at these five pricey watering holes.

BED Atlanta
The Glenn Hotel, 110 Marietta St. (@ Spring St.)
Downtown 404.222.7992
BED Atlanta chefs up a spread of seductive cocktails with names such as The G-Spot, Golden Shower, and Bed Knob priced at $12.

Beluga Martini Bar
3115 Piedmont Rd. NE (Martina Dr. NE & E. Paces Ferry Rd. NE)
Buckhead 404.869.1090
Chat it up with piano players, sultry lounge singers, and $15 French Connection martinis at this jazzy nightclub.

Compound
1008 Brady Ave. NE (@ Howell Mill Rd.)
Westside 404.872.4621
After you get through the $20 cover and $5–10 parking, the $10+ cocktails at this white-hot bar will start to seem more expensive than their price tag claims.

Lotus
565 Main St. (Lindbergh City Center)
404.869.3445
Lounging in the lap of luxury certainly ain’t cheap. All of Lotus' 10-ounce specialty martinis cost between $8 and $12.

XO Bar
3315 Peachtree St. (Highland Dr. & Piedmont Rd.)
Buckhead 404.946.9060
Perhaps the most indulgent of all are the chi-chi drinks at Atlanta’s swank cognac bar where many tasty libations cost more than your shoes and your bag combined.

Much Ado About Something

Better let your boss see you coughing up a storm today 'cause there's a lot of shopping to do this weekend, and it wouldn't hurt to get a head start tomorrow.

The Intown Boutique Warehouse Sale (728 Ralph McGill Blvd. @ Freedom Pkwy., Poncey-Highland., 404.876.6055) hosts boutiques such as Alternative, Bella Azul, Cherry Bomb, Wish, Taste, Veruca, and more—all offering their wares at up to 90% off. Fri. & Sat., 10am-7pm

The semiannual Boutique Warehouse Sale at Market at The Works (711 Trabert Ave., off Howell Mill Rd., btwn. Chattahoochee & 14th St., West Midtown, 404.876.1359) features fashionable threads from Luxe, Bloom fab'rik, Sandpiper, Tulipano, The Fickle Manor, and more—all at up to 50%-75% off. Sat., 10am-6pm; Sun., noon-5pm

Baby, It's Cold Outside

It's freezing in the south now, but no one wants to completely cover up in a puffy parka. Head over to Ruby Regis Studio (49 Bennett St., 404.351.7111) and pick up one of her handmade feminine cardies made from vintage wool, cashmere, and silk blends. Layer over a long-sleeved cashmere top, a tweed skirt, and some wooly tights, and you're set to brave that short jaunt over to the coffee shop.

Make Room For Va-Va-Voom

M-A-C Cosmetics just announced that long-ago Hollywood sex kitten Raquel Welch is its new spokeswoman. Uh, isn't she like 50? Oh, no, says IMDB. She's actually 66 years old. She still looks fabulous, but so would we all at that age if M-A-C took us under its respective wing. I applaud their good efforts that speak to the agelessness of beauty. M-A-C is introducing a new collection in honor of its sultry Beauty Icon for 2007 (available in February).

Bombs Away

Rumor has it that the star drink, Dolce Sin, at Atlantic Station's new eatery, Dolce Enoteca e Ristorante (261 19th St. NW, 404.872.3902) is like something from your college kamikaze-shooting days: sour and one to avoid. However, the small plates of Italian food are worth noshing on and the plasma screen fires are a hit in the dark, swanky restaurant founded by the likes of Ashton Kutcher, Wilmer Valderrama, and Mike "Boogie" Malin of Big Brother fame.

Star Quality

You might've missed your chance for some up-close star-studded action at the Golden Globes Monday night, but with Smashbox's new front-row VIP beauty kit, you'll be able to save face and strut your superstar self all over town. $48

the pink frock rocks

I just have to do a shout out to my all-time favorite girl celeb Drew Barrymore. She wore a pale pink strapless John Galliano for Christian Dior gown with such glamour and grace at the Golden Globes. She's no longer the little girl lost nor hippie chick. I love the 40s glam that some of the girls had going on. I wish I could say the same for the puff-ball poodle dress the girl at the "Babel" table was wearing.

awesome blossom

Mix and mingle with Atlanta's finest at Lotus Lounge (2420 Piedmont Rd., 404.869.3445) tonight (Wed., Jan. 17). Ketel One and Citroen will be on hand during happy hour (6 to 8pm) to liquor you up in ways you can't even imagine.

First-Class Decadence

Just beyond the velvet rope is a world of celeb-centric wonder...and a whole lot of high-class drinking going on.

Hush VIP Lounge
67 12th St. NW (@ Crescent Ave.)
Midtown 404.875.7473
Atlantans come here to groove to the spinning of celebrity DJs in the hopes of spotting traveling talent.

Justin's
2200 Peachtree Rd. NW (Brighton Rd. NE & Brookwood Valley Cir. NE)
Buckhead 404.603.5353
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ restaurant and bar attracts celebrities and professional athletes like flies to honey.

Shout
1197 Peachtree St. NE (@ 14th St.)
Midtown 404.846.2000
Atlanta Falcons’ QB Michael Vick shows off his blinged-out lobes at the private cabana at this Buckhead club.

Tongue and Groove
3055 Peachtree Rd. (@ Buckhead Ave. NE)
Buckhead 404.261.2325
Though the crowd may seem a little uptight, you’ll be happy to find some guarded B-level celebs to dance with, er, near.

Verve Lounge
511 Peachtree St. (@ Renaissance Pkwy.)
Midtown 404.888.8880
Janet Jackson and Jermaine Dupri have been known to grace this swank bar with their presence on several occasions.

I've Got A Five On It

Atlanta’s home to millionaires, McMansions, and money. But that doesn’t mean you have to drink your way into debt to keep up with the Joneses. Try these five spots where you can drink to your heart’s content for five bucks or less.

Cosmopolitan
45 13th St. (@ Peachtree Walk)
Midtown 404.873.6189
Home to $5 flavored martinis on Thursdays, hot babes (choose from any sex), live music, rockin’ DJs, and a heavy-on-the-hot singles scene, Cosmopolitan offers many a drink on the cheap.

Fritti
309 N. Highland Ave. (@ Elizabeth St.)
Inman Park 404.880.9559
Score $2 Bloody Marys, bellinis, and mimosas on Sundays at this typically overpriced (but generally well worth it) Italian joint.

Lenny’s
307 Memorial Dr. SE (@ Grant St.)
Grant Park 404.577.7721
Lenny’s is where it’s at for live music and affordable drinks. There’s plenty on the verbal drink menu under a five spot.

Leopard Lounge
84 12th St. (@ Williams St. NW)
404.874.2704
Happy Hour is always happy. Take advantage of $3 cocktails and $5 martinis at this retro-glam bar.

Twist
3500 Peachtree Rd. NE (@ Lenox Rd.)
Buckhead 404.869.1191
After a long day of shopping, er, who are we kidding, working, stop in at Phipps Plaza’s hip restaurant and lounge for a $5 martini on any night of the week.

Dive In

A cheap bar doesn’t have to mean it is not a good bar. Dive in to deeply discounted drinks at these five bars and restaurants on any night of the week.

Vickery's Bar & Grill
1106 Crescent Ave. NE (13th & 14th Sts.)
Midtown 404.881.1106
It might sound like a British pub, but this Caribbean-themed joint is anything but formal. On Sundays, budget-conscious boozers can guzzle frosty mugs of PBR for only a buck fifty.

Twisted Taco
66th 12th St. NE (@ W. Peachtree St.)
Midtown 404.607.8771
Tuesdays are for kicking back with friends, a mechanical bull (on special occassions only), $3 Dos Equis drafts, and happy hour taco specials for two bucks at this wild Midtown bar and restaurant.

Fuego Spanish Grill
1136 Crescent Ave.
Midtown 404.389.0662
Tap into $3 mojitos on Wednesdays at this happening Spanish and Cuban tapas lounge. Take advantage of the $1 tapas menu every weeknight from 4-6:30pm.

Park Tavern
500 10th St. NE (@ Monroe Dr.)
Midtown 404.249.0001
By far the best deal in town when it’s raining is this pub’s "When it rains, we pour” motto. Grab an umbrella, and head to the park to take advantage of the $1 draft deals.

Toast
817 W Peachtree St. NW
404.815.9243
Not just for brunch, Toast serves up house and specialty margaritas for only $4 on Thursdays, as well as free munchies (chips and dip served from 5:30 to 7pm).

Sale Alert

One of our favorite fashionable shopkeepers, Bill Hallman, is offering much of his merchandise at 60% off to make room for spring arrivals. Original, Flaunt, and Flair. 784-792 N. Highland Ave., Va. Hi., 404.876.6055. He's on MySpace now, too. myspace.com/billhallman

Sweet Tooth

So I had to get some cavities filled this morning. Ugh. Thankfully, my dentist was very gentle. I was a little worried since he just got back from Arizona yesterday where he watched his alma mater, Ohio State, get stomped by the Gators in the National Championship game. So he was a little blue. Anyway, I've got a ridiculous amount of tiny cavities (seven more to go), all thanks to my terrible habit of drinking coffee with sugar all morning long. My dentist told me that Splenda was actually way better for my teeth since the sugar and calories are what bacteria eats. Splenda's sugar-free and calorie-free. I had previously thought that since Splenda was a derivative of sugar, it would be no better for my teeth. Not so, says my doc. When I got back to my home office, I did a little searching and found that Splenda has just released a fabulous new product just for us java addicts: Flavor Blends for Coffee. They're the same little yellow pouch of sweetness, but with added flavors such as french vanilla, mocha, and hazelnut. Stir, sip, and rest easy that you are taking care of your pearly whites while you zap your body with caffeine. Now all you have to worry about are those nasty coffee stains.

Pleased As Punch

We like to party, and when there's no reason to drink, I make one up. Right now, I'm plotting a "Happy to be a Southerner" party to celebrate the SEC win over Ohio State on Monday night. Here's a recipe I found on Martha Stewart's ridiculously thorough website:

Southern Comfort Punch

Serves 12 to 20



6 lemons

4 navel oranges

2 six-ounce cans frozen lemonade concentrate

1 six-ounce can frozen orange juice concentrate

2 liters lemon-lime soda

1 liter Southern Comfort



1. Line two baking sheets with plastic wrap, and set aside. Slice lemons into rounds as thin as possible. Arrange lemon slices in layers on one prepared baking sheet. Repeat with oranges; layer on second baking sheet. Place in the freezer for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, until fruit slices are frozen.



2. Just before serving, open the cans of frozen lemonade and orange juice, and place the frozen concentrates, whole, in a large punch bowl. Add the soda, Southern Comfort, and several handfuls of ice. Remove frozen fruit slices from freezer, and arrange over the top of punch. Serve immediately

In Like A L.A.M.B.

Bloomie's has partnered up with Lady Gwen Stefani to offer her kick-ass L.A.M.B. line. Oh, and they've also got all their fall merch on sale for an extra 30% off until Jan. 10. Click here to start shopping online with the code SNOW30 at checkout.

Lashing Out

Lately I've become obsessed with my lashes. Usually I'm trying to shrink something on my body, but since I experimented with false lashes on NYE (in clumps), I've been exploring my options. Eyelashes aren't just playscapes for mascara anymore, and lips aren't the only things getting pumped up. This weekend, a few of my friends were chatting, and one doe-eyed blonde recommended LashFusion's new product LashFusion Micro-Technology Pure Protein Lash Plump (available at Sephora for $39). She swears it works, and her eyelashes were looking, well, fat. So I'm getting some for myself, and I'll let you know how it goes.

Breaking Up Is Hard To Do

I broke up with Jack this weekend. He got so jealous that I was entertaining others (such as Vince and Dom). Ugh. Seriously, he got downright catty at times. I felt so icky by the time the night was over. I just don't think I can look at him the same. I told him that I need some time away from him. Everytime I think about it, I get nauseous. So if you're interested in seeing Jack, that's completely cool with me. Just keep in mind that he needs to know that he's all yours—at least for the evening.

Bargain Beauty

Face it: It’s not always easy keeping up with the always-flawless and filthy-rich Duffs and Hiltons. So you don’t make millions a year jet-setting here and there. So what? With the help of these budget-friendly beauty products, you too can play up your bombshell attributes.



Lurking in the shadows of drugstores across America are pots of gold in the form of eye color in every shade in the rainbow. Lucky for you, you don’t have to spend much to be able to snag a trio of your favorite colors with Max Factor’s line of eye candy, MAXeye Shadow. $4.69

Open your eyes to the possibilities of living like a queen for less with Cover Girl’s Queen Collection Volume Mascara. A bargain buy for any doe-eyed diva wanting to maximize her potential. $5.89

Never again will you fear that your neck and ears don’t match your face in every possible lighting situation. Color coordinate your skin to your powder with L’Oreal’s True Match Super-Blendable Powder. $9.99

Whether you’re going for goth, girl-next-door, smoky, or simple, line ’em up with Revlon’s ColorStay Eyeliner in black/brown. Its smooth quality is on par with pencils costing three times as much. $6.49

Score that “I just came in from a frisky romp in the snow” look with Neutrogena’s Healthy Skin Blends Sheer Highlighting Blush. The rainbow of colors from blush to bashful will have you exclaiming “How ’bout them apples?” without saying a word. $10.99

In pout-popping hues such as drumbeat red and cinnamon toast, L’Oreal’s Colour Riche is a luxury you can’t afford not to indulge in. The emollients soften lips and the color holds up to department store sticks. $4.99

Celeb makeup artist Sonia Kashuk creates affordable items for Target. Her eponymous Perfecting Liquid Makeup is a crucial component to achieving a flawless face on the cheap. $10.49

Take it all off at the end of the day with Almay Hypo-Allergenic Eye Makeup Remover Pads, possibly the gentlest makeup remover on the market under 10 bucks. No need to rinse afterwards—just wipe and go. $4.99

Total cost for all these great items? $58.52 before tax. I don’t know about you, but I’ve spent two times more on two items from other beauty retailers...and that’s only on eye makeup. Beauty can be a bargain.

I've Got A Five On It

Atlanta’s home to millionaires, McMansions, and money. But that doesn’t mean you have to drink your way into debt to keep up with the Joneses. Try these five spots where you can drink to your heart’s content for five bucks or less.

Cosmopolitan
45 13th St. (@ Peachtree Walk)
Midtown
404.873.6189
Home to $5 flavored martinis, hot babes (choose from any sex), live music, rockin’ DJs, and a heavy-on-the-hot singles scene, Cosmopolitan offers many a drink on the cheap.

Fritti
309 N. Highland Ave. (@ Elizabeth St.)
Inman Park
404.880.9559
Score $2 Bloody Marys, bellinis, and mimosas on Sundays at this typically overpriced (but generally well worth it) Italian joint.

Lenny’s
307 Memorial Dr. SE (@ Grant St.)
Grant Park
404.577.7721
Lenny’s is where it’s at for live music and affordable drinks. There’s plenty on the verbal drink menu under a five spot.

Leopard Lounge
84 12th St. (@ Williams St. NW)
404.874.2704
Once the clock strikes midnight, happy hour ensues. Take advantage of $3 cocktails and $5 martinis at this retro-glam bar.

Twist
3500 Peachtree Rd. NE (@ Lenox Rd.)
Buckhead
404.869.1191
After a long day of shopping, er, who are we kidding, working, stop in at Phipps Plaza’s hip restaurant and lounge for a $5 martini on any night of the week.

Dive In

A cheap bar doesn’t have to mean it is not a good bar. Dive in to deeply discounted drinks at these five bars and restaurants on any night of the week.



Vickery's Bar & Grill

1106 Crescent Ave. NE (13th & 14th Sts.)

Midtown 404.881.1106

It might sound like a British pub, but this Caribbean-themed joint is anything but formal. On Sundays, budget-conscious boozers can guzzle frosty mugs of PBR for only a buck.



Twisted Taco

66th 12th St. NE (@ W. Peachtree St.)

Midtown 404.607.8771

Tuesdays are for kicking back with friends, a mechanical bull, $3 Dos Equis drafts, and happy hour taco specials at this wild Midtown bar and restaurant.



Fuego Spanish Grill

1136 Crescent Ave.

Midtown 404.389.0662

Tap into $3 mojitos on Wednesdays and Sundays at this happening Spanish and Cuban tapas lounge. Take advantage of the $1 tapas menu every weeknight from 4-6:30pm.



Park Tavern

500 10th St. NE (@ Monroe Dr.)

Midtown 404.249.0001

By far the best deal in town when it’s raining is this pub’s "When it rains, we pour” motto. Grab an umbrella, and head to the park to take advantage of the $1 draft deals.



Toast 

817 W Peachtree St. NW

404.815.9243

Not just for brunch, Toast serves up house and specialty margaritas for only $4 on Thursdays, as well as free munchies (chips and dip served from 5:30 to 7pm).



~Kirsten Ott

Swig And Swag

Feeling like just another face with a wallet at most of Atlanta's stores and spas? At the new Perimeter Place (think miniature Atlantic Station), the women-owned businesses come together on the second Tuesdays each month to offer you a chance to get to know them and vice versa. To lure you in, they offer discounts, pampering, and refreshments. During Woman To Woman: Progressive Pampering, 1% of all sales at Winestyles, Miss Lovely's Shoe Boutique, Salon 11 Studios, REPOSE MedSpa, and Inspired Creations Jewelry are donated to a different charity. Tomorrow's worthy choice is Fragile Kids Foundation. Click here for more info.

Can't Fight The Feeling

OK, so I know I am supposed to be satisfied with my current collection of jewels since Santa has recently paid me a visit. But I want more. Since I am buying this round, I want this Tiffany Replica Bubbles Ring ($55) at Inspired Creations (Perimeter Place Shopping Center (behind Perimeter Mall), 4511 Olde Perimeter Way, 678.320.0571 ). It's a woman-owned store, and they're actually having quite the affair tomorrow and every second Tuesday of the month. Check out today's Beauty Straight Up to learn more.

In The Know

Getting a group together for dinner can be a challenge. Everyone wants to do something different but no one feels like doing any legwork. Don't spend another night with egg rolls and sweet and sour chicken. Here's a cheat sheet to use for a few of my favorite new restaurants in the city. Don't worry, you don't have to source us. (But we'd love it if you did!)

Saga
1100 Crescent Ave. (@ 12th St.)
404.872.0999
South Africa plus Georgia equals SAGA.

Shaun's
1029 Edgewood Ave. NE (Inman Park)
404.577.4358
Chef Shaun Doty of Table 1280 fame has opened his own neighborhood eatery.

Trois
1180 Peachtree St.
404.815.3337
Three reasons to go: posh, French, classic old-fashioned cocktails.

Dolce Enoteca e Ristorante
261 19th St. NW
404.872.3902
Find a dreamy Italian stallion to take you here.

Get Your Swerve On

It's the weekend...time for some liquid porn. Kink up the cocktails with these hot shots and flirty favorites.



Porn Star

1/2 oz. blue curacao

1/2 oz. raspberry liqueur

Pour both ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a shot glass, and serve.



Red-Headed Slut

a splash of cranberry juice

1/2 oz. peach schnapps

3/5 oz. Jagermeister

Combine ingredients in shaker with ice; chill, strain, and shoot to thrill.



Sex On The Beach

1/2 full cranberry juice

3/4 oz. peach schnapps

1/2 full pineapple juice

1 oz. vodka

Pour vodka and peach schnapps in a highball. Then fill remainder with half each of the juices. Stir.

Thirsty Thursday

Moe's & Joe's Bar & Grill (1033 N. Highland Ave. NE, 404.873.6090) offers up $4 pitchers of Foster's on Thursdays. Bring your holiday cash, mates and sheilas—no cards accepted here.

Groove Me, Baby

You surely didn't get your fill of dancing on NYE. There's more shaking in your hips than Shakira could shake a stick at. Head to Modern Groove Movement tonight at Lotus Lounge (2420 Piedmont Rd., 404.869.3445) at 8pm for some serious grind-worthy grooves.

Chill Factor

Atlanta's temps are dropping, and it's finally time to layer something over that ridiculously thin cashmere sweater. Try this warm and colorful cover-up on for size: Trina Turk's osaka-print linen and silk "Leonora" coat ($534) at Tulipano (2140 Peachtree Rd., 404.351.3220).

Beauty Sleep

Get some. According to a recent study funded by Sanofi-Aventis, Atlanta's not getting enough sleep. Moreover, we're the most sleepless city in the United States, averaging out at 9.7 nights of crappy sleep a month. Our horrendous commute times, divorce rates, and unemployment rates factored into the list. I'm not sure what Anaheim and L.A. are doing right (the most rested cities), but for now, I'll continue to enjoy that glass of merlot before bedtime.

Unclogged

Pores are a girl's dirtiest secret, but you better start opening up about them, or your future face is doomed. Partying hard for the past two weeks has reeked havoc under your skin. Seek refuge with a deep pore detox at Fiori Skincare Spa (11720 Medlock Bridge Rd., Duluth, 770.814.0089). Specialties at this Duluth spa also include oxygen facials, deep tissue massage, waxing, eyelash and bow tinting, makeup application, and LHE hair removal. Numerous medical services are offered at the spa, including Botox injections, microdermabrasion, glycolic treatments, and peels. Other services include cellulite reduction treatments and anti-aging facials. Call for an appointment.

Heavenly Haven

Starting today, everything at West Buckhead boutique Haven (3209 Paces Ferry Pl., 404.239.0411) is reduced 40–90%, including hard-to-find labels Stewart Brown, A Common Thread, and Burning Torch. Hours: Tues.-Fri., 11-6; Sat., 11-5

Bar None

This holiday season, you discovered that you love partying at your own home (you don't have to drive and your bedroom is always a short distance away should you need some privacy to pass out or whatever). Unfortunately what also comes with throwing your own bash is your friends saying "Ooh, I want what you're having" or you, not wanting your boozin' friends near your liquor cabinet, offer to make the drinks. Either way, you find yourself playing Cocktail, whipping up dirty martinis and cosmos like it's nobody's business when suddenly the room's half empty. You sneak away from the bar long enough to realize that only a handful of pals are left, and of these, most are in dark corners carrying on what they believe to be extremely meaningful conversations. The party's just begun, you think, and then you miserably accept that no, you spent the party behind bars, er, bar. Don't let it happen again. Next time, hire Liquid Chefs (770.248.3988), Atlanta's premium mobile bar service. The master mixologists provide a stylish, fully mobile bar setup complete with special lighting effects, water feature, and backlit shelving displays—allowing you to focus on the party at hand without worrying that buddy Jane is hogging all the vodka.